DILI, 05 May 2026 (TATOLI) Timor-Leste’s Minister of Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Nelyo Isaac, has called for culture, arts and heritage to be placed at the centre of development policies across the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) countries, saying they are key drivers of sustainable growth and social cohesion.
Isaac made the remarks on the sidelines of the CPLP Meeting of Culture Ministers, held on 4–5 May at Hotel Timor in Dili under the theme “Safeguarding Cultural Heritage, Promoting Identity and Citizenship in the CPLP.”
The meeting brought together ministers and representatives from member states to discuss shared strategies to promote cultural development and strengthen multilateral cooperation in the sector.
Isaac said he was encouraged and optimistic about the future of cultural cooperation within the Portuguese-speaking bloc, adding that the discussions had strengthened ties among member states and helped establish clear priorities for the next phase of collaboration.
According to the minister, participants reached strategic consensus reflecting what he described as “clear political will” to elevate culture as a pillar of sustainable development.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting, he said, was the consolidation of a cultural cooperation roadmap for 2026–2028, based on concrete and measurable goals.
Isaac also underscored stronger commitments to safeguarding cultural heritage, saying it should be viewed not only as historical memory but also as a strategic tool for promoting citizenship, innovation, and social cohesion across CPLP countries.
“We reaffirm that the CPLP, through its cultural diversity, has its own distinct voice on the international stage,” he said, adding that cultural cooperation would remain essential to the bloc’s global identity and influence.
Member states also agreed to deepen political coordination in the sector, share experiences and best practices, and reinforce culture’s role as a foundation for economic and social resilience.
The agenda further included calls to strengthen diplomatic coordination and ensure continuity of previous decisions through closer monitoring of implementation plans.
Isaac thanked participating delegations for what he described as an “open spirit” throughout the discussions, as well as the CPLP Executive Secretariat for supporting the organisation of the meeting.
Journalist: Afonso do Rosário
Editor: Isaura Lemos de Deus
Translation: Filomeno Martins
